An estimated 385,000 women die annually in childbirth around the world in countries where midwives and doctors are simply not available. Many die from infections acquired during childbirth. This can be prevented, with the supply of birthing kits.
The Zonta Club of Southern Gold Coast/Tweed, as part of Zonta International, are committed to Advancing the Status of Women Worldwide.
Every year, Zonta supports the Birthing Kit Foundation (Australia) in trying to reduce these horrific statistics, through the supply of the practical equipment in these birthing kits.
Each birthing kit costs $3. Zonta is seeking donations and volunteers to reach its target of 1000 kits this year. Donations will be used for the sole purpose of buying the components required to assemble these birthing kits.
The birthing kit addresses the ‘seven cleans’ needed for a safe delivery: a plastic sheet, soap, two gloves, sterile scalpel blade, three cords and five gauze squares. These items are assembled into individual small bags on the Zonta Assembly Day.
According to Kaye Lollback, President of Zonta Club Southern Gold Coast/Tweed, “$30 means 10 birthing kits and the potential of 10 mothers giving birth to babies that will survive because they will not fall prey to infection,” she says.
The group will be getting together with volunteers for a kit making production line on Sunday, November 11 at The South Tweed Sports Club at 11am DST.
Afternoon Tea will be served where they will socialise after the completion of the assembly of tht Birthing Kits. Frontline For Hair is donating a lucky door prize. Please would you register with the names of yourself and any friends you may be able to encourage to come along for a fun afternoon. They expect the packing to take 2-2.5 hours.
As well as contributing to the prevention of infections to newborns and mothers, this is a great opportunity to meet other local women willing to give their time to make a difference. Please email Carolyn at cgzonta@hotmail.com to register your intent to join us or phone or text 0416 637 771.
Or you can make your donation at the bank with the following details: Zonta Club of Southern Gold Coast Tweed, Bank of Queensland BSB No: 124-001, Account No: 11139149.
More information at www.birthingkitfoundation.org.au.
